1997 Ferrari F355 GTS

Lot No.: 349

This 1997 F355 is arguably the rarest and most desirable of all the F355s being a UK, right-hand drive, GTS with a manual gearbox finished in the traditional V8 Ferrari colours of Rosso over Crema with a colour matched roof panel.

The odometer indicated a mere 17,540mls at the time of cataloguing and this number is supported by some past MoTs and no less than 13 stamps in the service book. Continuing the history of fastidious maintenance, the car will be undergoing a Cam Belt service just prior to the sale.

As you might expect, the car presents exceptionally well with its condition, both inside and out, reflecting its low mileage, however, whilst in the care of a previous owner, the car, unfortunately, suffered a minor engine bay fire as can be seen in images enclosed in the car's history file. The owner at the time decided F355 ownership was not for him, choosing to cut his losses and sell the car back to its previous owner and claim on insurance, resulting in the car being listed as a 'Category D' insurance loss (Vehicle damaged but repairable – Insurer decided not to repair).

The previous owner then enlisted Ferrari Specialists 'G.T Autos' to rectify the, mostly superficial, damage and return the 355 back to its pristine best. This included stripping the rear end to closely inspect and assess any damage and then methodically rebuilding it to factory standards with any sign of smoke and heat damage corrected. As can be seen by the £6,000 invoice and accompanying images the damage appears to be mostly visual with parts needing refinishing rather than replacing.

The Ferrari is accompanied by a good history file consisting of the service book pack, past invoices, a number of parts manuals, and a correct Ferrari tool kit.

This is a superbly presented 355 GTS, and despite its minor altercation with the insurance company, surely ticks all the boxes for any shrewd collector.